Oops

I had agreed yesterday to work an extra hour this morning. This morning, I forgot about it until I was already 6 minutes late. It takes about 10 minutes to log into all the various programs I need open for work, so I was at least 15 minutes late when I started today. Oops!

My supervisor wasn't angry. Plus, I caught up. With a full extra hour, my projected case count expected would have been 79. Then had an IT thing to attend to which took up about 15 minutes, dropping that expected count to about 76. However, I ended the day with 85 cases. And I may have forgotten to log a couple. 

So, I am averaging at least an extra $100 per week, which adds up to an extra $200 per paycheck. That is, now that things are returning somewhat to normal. 

Thing I had forgotten about why I asked for an earlier shift is that calls come in much faster early in the morning. Plus the calls tend to be from a higher percentage of callers who know what they're doing. In my first 45 minutes today, I logged 12 cases. The schedule I have been on has started not long before lunch begins on the east coast. It may start fast but then drops off quickly. The earlier shift may mean as much as an extra 10 cases per day. (Hoping.) 

My stomach (and the rest of me) is feeling sooo much better than a few weeks ago. Not dealing with severe abdominal cramps every single morning any more. Energy level is back on the rise. Finally. 

Okay, I have things to do. Cleaning house, running to Auto Zone. Maybe changing the oil in the car (if I can see well enough by halogen light). This car does sit pretty low, so I'm hoping I can even get under the car. 

Decent time

Woke at a decent time this morning. Just having some coffee and giving my body a chance to wake up. My body takes longer than my brain to fully wake.

It's a real shame the missions control paces don't open earlier, at least at 8. They keep hours like nobody has a job. That's one of the problems which holds NM back. Too hard for working people to get things done here because too many businesses keep hours which conflict with working hours. Either they cater to people who do not work or the locals have the attitude that it's okay to take off from work for every little thing. Just another reflection of the culture.. which is exactly what will continue to hold this state back. 

Tesla has named NM as a possible location for a battery plant. However, that is along with several other states. It will be a really big plant. A few years ago, they already passed NM over for a vehicle manufacturing plant. That was before the issues with language in school and for businesses came up as such a large topic. In the Whole Foods case, it had to do with handling food. In this case, it has to do with building large vehicle batteries, where safety is a much bigger concern. Therefore, a common language for employees is a much, much stronger consideration.

If Tesla does their research, that issue, along with the work ethic, is certain to play into their decision. For the vehicle plant, they chose CA, which is a lot more expensive to do business in. (I note the states they are considering for the battery plant are all along the I-10 and I-40 corridors, which run directly to CA.) The local news is playing up the announcement but considering the number of batteries and the weight of shipping, I'm pretty sure geographic location is their first consideration. Then business considerations will be next. If they build here, it will probably have more to do with availability of natural resources than much else. 

Tilling

In spite of the wind this evening, I went out and started tilling the north garden rows. I had run the sprinkler during lunch to soften the soil. Didn't get too far because it got too dark rather quickly. Not the best idea to run a machine with rapidly spinning blades near your feet in the dark.

I can get more of that done next week, once I start the new schedule. 

The north garden is going to be almost exclusively tomato plants with maybe a few pepper plants thrown in. Though keeping them more separated because peppers didn't do so great last year. 

Wish I had the money to order new tiller blades. These are worn down badly. Think I can get things done but takes a lot more work. Maybe I should check EBay.

Something else I need to do once my schedule has changed is to change the oil in the car. Got a new filter tonight. Had to go get license plate mounts, any way. Have the oil on hand, which never got used for the Camaro. Really hoping the car passes emissions this weekend. Just the oil being too dirty can cause it to fail. 

Not that much to write tonight. Think I'll hit the rack early. 

Mortgage

I keep plugging away at the mortgage. Getting closer and closer to having it current. As of now, the December and more than half of Jan is paid. After next paycheck, I'll have it paid through Jan. My calculations say I will have it current in 4 paychecks after that. 

Sounds like a long time but after the trick they pulled on me, it takes time to catch up. Besides, it is taking less time and less money than the "payment plan" they offered me. Once again, the plan they offered would have resulted in over $1000 being paid in which would have basically disappeared, not being applied to my account at all. 

Once I do have it current, that will mean I have an extra $400-$550 a month free. I intend to apply part of that toward savings, part toward my student loan and part toward home improvement. In that order. 

At some point, I want to take daughter back to Disney World. For a longer period next time. Not going to have the money this year but if I can save the money it may be a possibility next year. If things work out right, I won't have to use up my whole tax refund next year and that will pay for most of it. I have almost 18 months to plan for it. By then, maybe she'll have more urge to ride some of the larger rides with me. 

It is true I could have applied more of the tax money toward the mortgage if I had not purchased to car. However, I was seriously worried the truck is going to break down if I don't repair certain things which take time and money. I have not had the time during the right hours of the day to get those things done and do not foresee having the time in the near future. I'll see if I can get the parts used this weekend. That will be my last window open for used parts, then I'll have to go with new. I do want to keep the truck for utility purposes as long as I can. 

Okay, I have things to do before work.

Aesthetics

For the last few years, I have been working on how things function. Have not had resources to work on aesthetics. I finally looked around and found that, for the most part, things are functioning. Not too much further to go to get everything working the way I want. At least at base level for what I want.

So, this year I can start putting a bit more effort into aesthetics. I am planning to spend a moderate sum on paint this year. Plus a bit of effort into woodwork. 

Not all going to happen overnight. I still need new teeth. I expect that to cost at least $1800. But that is another step toward improving my health, as well. 

Yes, I have been focusing on my health a lot lately. For one thing, my health had slipped slowly over time. For another, I finally have health insurance again. So, I have finally found the main things which have been the root cause of the problems. Plus I am at an age that is a tipping point. If I don't make sure my health is in order now, I would be setting myself up for serious problems in the future. As it is, I feel like, at nearly 52, I am basically middle aged. If that. 

Think I'm going to sleep on the sofa again tonight. Hurt my shoulder somehow and it's been in pain for days. Feels better when I sleep on the couch than in bed. Not really sure why. Something about the position, I think. 

Only two more days on my current schedule. On Monday I start my earlier schedule. The funny part is that it may actually decrease my case count. Not sure yet. I have gained enough speed that I actually pick up more cases during my time on web cases than on telephone. 

Here's a good thing. The company is picking up more work from places other than the East Coast. Which means a lower and dropping percentage of calls coming from NY and NJ. I hate talking to a high percentage of people from up there. They're rude and seriously overly aggressive. Far too frequently trying to strong-arm a review, rather than offering valid clinical information. They do seem to be slowly learning it will not work but still too many of them. Thing they should understand is that they and their tactics are exactly what makes our job necessary. They also complain about how much time they have to spend on the phone, then don't even have the chart available with the required information. So, whose fault is it they have to spend so much time on the phone? 

Registration

Well, I had planned on doing the emissions test and hopefully the registration this morning. However, from what I can see, the emissions places all open at 8:30 or later around my area. The time I actually have to start logging in on my work computer is about 9:15 or earlier. Not going to have much choice but to use the plate from the truck and get those things done this weekend. Which also means the MVD will be closed, so I'll have to pay the extra for a private registration company. 

Since writing the above, I did drive to one emissions testing place right by the MVD. Closed, no hours posted. (Not a popular thing around here to post business hours.) The places that do post hours all close at or before 6 PM, when I get off work.

The car drives well but I suspect may have a small vacuum leak in relation to the transmission. Have to track it down. Not causing big problems but small eccentricities. 

This car does have fuel injection and electronic ignition. So the timing should be pretty reliable and it should be good on gas. 

I haven't spotted any big issues. (By my definition.) Confirmed it will need a new CV axle in the future. Not an immediate concern. Can get one for $70 or less with lifetime warranty. Just a bit of work. Plan that for warm weather.

It is small and won't be any good for hauling large or extremely heavy items. 

Knowing about the CV axle and vacuum leak, if I take the car on the highway, I won't be pushing it too hard until I address those issues. Good thing is that I do not believe there's anything wrong with engine timing or engine/transmission in general. No extended road trips just yet but short ones are okay. I would trust this vehicle enough for that. The seller was extremely open and honest with details, so I believe he would have told me if the vehicle had broken down recently. He told me about every problem he could think of.

All in all, a good purchase.

Pathology report

Finally got the pathology report in the mail today. Happy to say nothing more serious than what is already known. (Like what is known isn't enough.) So, I submitted a request for an appointment in a few weeks to address the issue. Best to get some medication to help keep things under control. 

I did want to get the pathology report before setting an appointment. Just in case there was anything of more concern. I'd rather have a chance to absorb information and check available treatment options. Not fond of having limited choices placed in front of me on short notice. Also not fond of being placed under emotional stress in front of other people.

So, the front of my house has turned into a parking lot. Two cars, a truck and a motorcycle. Think I'm going to have to do something about that. Going to give the new car a chance, see how well it performs. If it does well enough, think I'll sell the Camaro. May be a better choice to put money into a vehicle that's running and the money would go further. 

I have ultimately come to the decision that I no longer have the capacity for romance (as popularly defined) within me. I used to have a strong romantic side but it is now gone. I do admit my view of romance was mostly more lucid than the average person. I'm not grieving the loss of that side of me. Not completely closed to some future emotional involvement but it has to be on a different level. It may also include some level of romance but only if based on reality. I refuse to become involved in anything ever again which involves manipulation, power struggles, any form of abuse or having to ignore reality in favor of fantasy. My tolerance for any of those things was always low, any way.

It's here

The guy who sold me the car had the back window fixed this morning. Amazingly early, too! He texted me like 10 AM to tell me it was done. This evening, he drove it over and dropped it off. His brother picked him up. 

I do still need to give the car a more thorough going-over but a lot of that will have to be in the morning, when I can see. 

Few minutes later- I did go out and check it over a little. It seems quite acceptable for the price. It may at some point need a new CV axle. That may be the vibration at high speed. Not bad enough to be a priority. I may need to work on the timing. It may need a new belt. He said he had the belt replaced but it may be one notch off or the tensioner is loose. Again, not a big deal, it only misses occasionally. Have to fix the automatic seat belt on the passenger side. (Saw one thing wrong with it. It's unplugged!) There is also a lap belt which is not automatic. 

Whatever little problems it has, it seems like it will last for quite a while. And not bad for what I paid. The end deal was that I paid $150 for the back window. For the car itself, I only paid $550. Plus gave the seller $40 for his efforts, which I would have paid for a tow truck. I'd rather he have it, as he went above and beyond. Who can complain about putting a little work into a running vehicle which cost only $550?

By comparison, I bought the truck for $800 and had to replace the back window, which cost $300, if I recall correctly. 

Work sucked a bit today. Started the day with the computer locking up on my very first case. However, the phone did not lock up and I kept getting calls until I unplugged the phone. 

Any way, I have to take the car tomorrow and see if it passes emissions. Then get it registered in my name. Got insurance for it today. Just have to print it out.

Mistake

Looks like I made a mistake. I requested March 17 and 18 off from work for daughter's spring break. Turns out I looked at the calendar wrong and her spring break is in April, not March. Going to have to change my requested dates off. Not sure how I did that one.

Got up at a decent time this morning. Need to transplant some of the tomato seedlings to larger containers before they outgrow the small ones, which they're already doing. That was fast!

Part I left out about the car last night. It had a broken back window. Some vandal broke it in the man's parking lot. However, he said he knows someone who would replace it for $150 and he dropped the price by that amount. However, we made the arrangement that he would have the guy replace the window today and I gave him the full $700 and left the car at his house for that to happen. He'll bring the car over this evening. I do have the title. I'll give him some extra money for the effort, especially since he will bring the car over and I drive him home. That would save me the need for a tow truck. I would have to have it towed because of logistics. Can't ride the bike over there and drive the bike and the car home. 

I really hope this car works out better than the Camaro has. However, I will count the Camaro as a fluke. I bought the van for $1300 and drove it for about two years. Bought the truck for $800 and, while it has had problems, it remains functioning after 2 1/2 years. Hoping daughter will be happy when I drive up in something different this weekend. (We would both be happy if I drove up in something brand new but that's not happening for a while.)

I'm trying different varieties of strawberries this year. Ones I keep hearing about are TriStar, which were developed by the Department of Agriculture along with a university. However, I cannot find them locally. Have to order them. Of the ones I have planted, looks like about 15 plants growing now. Never expect all 10 plants in a package to grow, they average 7-8 of 10 actually growing. These are all ever-bearing. 

Okay, have to get to those tomato plants.

New (to me) car

Bought a car this evening. Used, of course. Got it for $700. It's a '93 Mazda MX3. Yes, it needs some work. What do you want for that price? However, it runs and drives very nicely. Soon as the key was turned, it started instantly. Accelerates well. And burns a fraction of the gas that the truck does!

Plus, no car payment. And cost less than half the cost of the rebuilt engine for the Camaro. 

Guy says it shakes at high speed but that is probably that it needs an alignment. From the acceleration, I'm doubting it's the transmission. However, he was referring to speeds over 70 mph and cars that old were not built much for those speeds. So it could be pushing the limit of the rated normal speed. Or could be the tires. I'll figure it out. Long as it actually goes a speed that I can actually take it on the highway without the radiator exploding or parts dropping off, I'm okay with it at that price. That and if it lasts for a year or two would be even better, of course. Needs a paint job but not as badly as the truck. It's small and easy to handle. Be easier to work on than the truck because I won't have to use a stepladder to reach the engine. Doesn't overheat. 

Work is picking up again. Had 84 cases today and that was on my regular 8 hour shift. No complaints on that! The 90 cases in 8 hours still eludes me just slightly. Part of that is callers who have no clue why they're calling, placing me on hold, etc. 

Got a message that my pathology report is completed. However, I can't access it online because of some tech issue. I have to make an appointment to discuss it with the doctor.

Okay, I need to take a bath and wash dishes. 

More reading

Been doing a little more reading on the ulcerative colitis (UC) issue. This time on message boards. Seems it's not so uncommon to have the concurrence of Celiac and UC. 

Not so fond of message boards for an illness. They're like support groups. (But what would I expect?) Some people are whiners and their minor symptoms are worse to them than people bleeding out and on blood transfusions. Others are arrogant because they've had the diagnosis for many years. 

However, I was just taking a short look to see the disease from the patient perspective. Seems mine is not so bad. Some people have bloody diarrhea up to 20 times a day. That was one thing confusing to me when the GO doc talked to me. She asked about diarrhea, which I have not had since I got the Candidiasis under control. Almost all my symptoms have improved since then, with only mild and mostly predictable problems. 

Not obsessing for the long term here, just trying to get a handle on things to understand how to deal with it. And still waiting for the pathology report. Hate that. It's like holding my breath for too long. There is the risk of cancer involved here. Up to 30 percent of people with ulcerative colitis wind up with cancer, so the risk is extraordinarily high. However, the treatment has a good success rate, if caught early enough. 

Oh, well. I am looking around at different vehicles on CL I am considering buying. At least looking at. Now that I have some cash, the bike and the number for an affordable tow truck, taking a look around is reasonable. If I wind up with multiple running vehicles, it would not be a bad thing and could sell one or two for what I paid for them or whatever. If I can get a better truck for a decent price sometime (automatic, open bed), I'll sell this truck just so I don't have to work on it any more. Funny thing is, it's running better now than it has in a long time. Not well enough for me to feel secure, though.

Still too cold in the morning to get out and do much outside work done. Need to kick myself into gear and get more inside work done in the evenings. Starting next week, I will have more time available in the evenings when the sun is up to get things done outside. Happy about that!

Another sleepless night

Having another night of insomnia. Though I am starting to feel the effects of valerian root, Benadryl and food. 

My mind is working on about various things. For some reason, fixated on emotional issues I have not really focused on for quite some time. Partly from a post on CL which brought past thoughts back.

It's interesting how men even today still have so little right to their own emotions. If a man does not express or show his emotions, he is considered an asshole. However, if he does express or display his emotions, he is considered less masculine. Which is easier to deal with? Almost universally, it is easier to deal with being considered an asshole, especially when you know it is not true. (Yes, I realize there are exceptions to this rule in true assholes. However, they are the exception, not the rule.)

There have been many times in my life I have substituted sex for emotion. Why? Because it's much easier to find sex and does not involve the risk of pain which emotion does. 

For 5 years now (shortly), I have been celibate. The reason is simple. I have not been willing to make a commitment which does not meet certain ideals. Not willing to abandon those ideals yet again. Looking for friendship is so much more difficult than sex or commitment. 

So, now I'm again facing loneliness. Only so many options open. I am going to start going out and socializing. I am also going to start looking for a lover. Or two. Or more. 

Of course, before that happens, I need to get the house and yard back in better shape. That's a good motivator to get those things done. Starting this week, getting to work on it. 

On the other hand, I don't really want to get into some schedule which takes up all my time and interferes with my projects. I want to get things done around here. I would actually prefer having someone around to talk to that doesn't mind if I'm working on different things, rather than demanding all my attention. Right now, even for sex. If I had less to do and more to do it with, that sentiment would change. 

Okay, everything mentioned above is in full effect. Getting to bed. 

Butterfly season

Looks like butterfly season is beginning. Daughter caught a couple of white butterflies today and made a small enclosure for them. 

She didn't feel like doing a whole lot else today. Her usual Sunday thing, stayed in her gown most of the day and just hung out. 

I talked myself into fixing the chain saw. Went and cut up a couple of large branches that fell across the fence from the neighbor's gigantic tree that he had cut down last week. Those branches were big enough that they crushed part of his fence. Dragged the pieces over to my wood pile to dry and twigs to let dry and burn in a couple of weeks. 

Then did another limited burn on the north side of the garden to get ready to till.

Truck ran okay taking daughter home and then getting me back home. Bogged down a bit one time but kept going. I think the problem may be in the partially repaired smog system. I need to replace a small control line. Now another problem. Need a new tire because the passenger rear tire has a nail and is leaking air. Aired it yesterday morning and had to fill it again today. At least it holds air enough that I can drive it to a shop. Though that may have to wait until next Sat morning because of my schedule.

Very seriously considering getting another cheap used vehicle which runs, maybe around $1000 or so. Keep the Camaro and fix it later. If I find something which runs decently it would give me more free cash for other projects for right now and I would still have the Camaro which is worth fixing. Now that tax season is in swing, more vehicles are showing up listed at reasonable prices. That is, a higher percentage. Still no shortage of idiots trying to sell crashed up garbage for unreal prices which they will never sell at that price. Many of them could barely be sold for scrap metal. 

I ordered more seeds last night. Purple carrots, tobacco and scorpion pepper seeds. The scorpion peppers I am really just trying to grow for sale and making various things. (Insecticide, dog repellant, pepper spray, etc.) 

I'm seriously thinking of doing all smaller crops this year in containers. Carrots, mostly. Keep the lettuce crop to a minimum. Plant out the larger crops much later this year. That will give me a chance to till several times to kill off weeds. Keep more space in between the large crops for the same reason. 

Seed starting 2014

Ovewr last couple of weeks, been getting seeds and things started for this year. 

Tomato seeds which I tried from naturally fermented tomatoes did not germinate. No great worries, I have lots of tomato seed left over from last year. 

Nearly all my pepper seeds which I had saved from peppers purchased and grown have germinated. Jalapeno and Cayenne. 

I have 8-9 strawberry plants actively growing from roots and they're doing good. Started 10 more tonight.

Also started some garlic, mint and cucumber seeds tonight. 

Got a new sprinkler. Dogs chewed up the old one. Ran it for a while today to soften up the soil for tilling. 

With cost of wood chips and other expenses to meet, guess I'll abort the wood chip idea this year and stick with standard layout and methods one more year. Though with wider rows and easier access to keep weeds under control. Because of salt and weeds, going to keep lots of things in containers this year. My schedule change will allow me time to keep things better tuned, long as I do things wisely. 

Once I till, then I'll get the lettuce and carrots started. 

Finally got the third dog collar to go with the underground fence. That and rebuilding the trellis fence should keep the dogs at bay and avoid scattered seeds this time. 

Daughter wants to start her own small garden with a fence around it. We're going to work on that tomorrow.  

Had a problem with the truck today. It died for unknown reason. Would not start for some time and I could not find anything wrong. Engine turned but wouldn't start. Just before calling a tow truck, gave it one more try and it started. Couple of things I still need to check because the engine was too hot. Maybe just a loose coil wire. Had gas and as stated the engine turned. We were on our way to get used parts at the time but turned around to come home once it started. No urge to take the chance it would not start again. 

Still nothing

Still no pathology report. This is kind of irritating. 

It's been a long week. Last night I had some coconut rum and chocolate almond milk along with my melatonin and Valerian Root. I slept rather well last night. 

I did decide to try the used parts place today. Drag daughter along with me. That is, the place that pulls parts for you. Good thing for her to learn. While there, I may check on how much they may charge for a used engine for the Camaro and any warranty they may offer. Worth asking. 

With weather changing and schedule to change soon, I may consider getting a used engine or less expensive rebuild and installing it myself. Though I am still leaning toward having the shop do it and put my time and efforts elsewhere. Long list of things to do.

Backward biology

Least I have my sense of humor! With my life, I have to.

It just hit me a little while ago. I have always maintained that my biology is completely backward from that of other people. Lots of people say that but very few people live up to it like I do. 

Common wisdom is that whole grains are good for you. With Celiac disease, wheat products will literally kill you.
Low fat diet is the way to go. Yeah, not so much when you have an absorption disorder. A low fat diet means you'll starve to death.
Sugar is bad for you. Not when you're hypoglycemic. 
ADD means I never know what a drug will do to me. Amphetamines calm my nerves. (Why I'm a coffee-holic.)

Now the latest twist. During the 1 days I stopped smoking, I kept getting sicker and sicker. Nicotine craving decreased but never stopped and got worse when my stomach ailments flared. Thought it was my imagination but always knew quitting smoking made me quite ill. Turns out smoking is a treatment for and preventive to ulcerative colitis. Seems smoking all these years has kept it at bay. It was not my imagination. 

I have to laugh at it. It's not a choice.

No wood chips

Well, I was going to order some wood chips to have delivered next week. However, the inexpensive wood chips are something they make a pain to order. The other wood chips are twice the price. They doubled the price of delivery. Plus, no wood chips available for two weeks. 

That settles that. Order some next paycheck, I guess. 

Went out at lunch before calling them to burn some of the dried grass and weeds. Glad I had the hose running! Fire spread faster than you can imagine! I was almost surrounded before I grabbed the hose. Not cool. Going to have to go about this in a more patient manner, select an area, wet everything around that area, burn that specific area only. Wait a couple days for the adjacent area to dry and repeat the process. Slower but safer. Yeesh!

Did not order the fan for the truck yesterday. The store nearest me only has the more expensive fan but it is a more effective design. Guess I'll spring for the extra money and get that one. Have to check and see if I'll need the spacer before I go. Then again, maybe wait and go to a used parts place tomorrow where they pull the parts and get an harmonic balancer, as well.

Step forward

Well, paycheck went in as it should. It did have some extra money, nothing extraordinary but enough to notice.

At this point, I am estimating I can get the Camaro fixed in about 4 weeks. That's when I project having the money all together. While still chipping away at the mortgage in sizable chunks. 

Close enough now to request a new estimate and ask what the estimated time frame for the work will be. If there's any appreciable time frame for the work, I'll have the car towed a week out from the check when I'll have the final funds available. Then have to plan ahead to take the bus or a taxi when it's ready. 

Now that winds have died back down, can start burning weeds again. Checked again on composted wood chip prices and I can afford to get 12 tons ordered and delivered next week. They only cost $5 a ton and that is approximately 3.5 square yards per ton, so it should cover a large area. One square yard is 27 square ft, so at 6" deep will cover over 1100 feet of ground. Take a lot of work but it will be worth it to get the yard in shape. 

Good and not yet certain

Some good news today. Was offered (and accepted) an earlier shift from work. Not a lot earlier, just an hour. However, that's enough for now. New shift starts 3/3/14 and runs 8:30 to 5. That's an extra hour of sunlight and comes just as growing season approaches. So, I'm happy about it!

On the not certain front, I haven't gotten the pathology report back from the colonoscopy yet. However, got a voice mail today from the GI doctor. In the voice mail, she just says if I have any questions to call her. The problem? Her voice sounded nervous. I don't like it when doctors sound nervous. Guess I just have to wait for more information. 

Found a surprising thing which helps my discomfort. Simple Motrin. Something which has not helped me for many complaints in my life at all. I don't really recall why I bought it but think it was for something daughter had at some time in the past. In this case, my discomfort is definitely caused mostly by inflammation. That combined with Epsom salt is making a huge difference. 

I have mentioned fixing the Camaro a number of times. However, just for kicks, I am also keeping an eye out on CL for the possibility of another working vehicle at an inexpensive price. No plans to get rid of the Camaro. I still intend to repair it. Just not leaving out the possibility of another vehicle if I find one at a good price. Especially if it's a smaller pickup with an automatic transmission. Not in a rush. The truck is running and so is the bike. May still be best to wait and get the Camaro fixed. 

Nice surprise

Woke up to a nice surprise. The tax refunds from federal and CO were deposited last night. Have a couple of bills due, so paying them this morning instead of tomorrow. Not going all out because of apprehension from the pay not being deposited on time a few weeks ago. Just making sure pay goes in before paying all the bills.

So, long as nothing unforeseen happens, I should be able to bring the mortgage current and get the Camaro fixed in the next few weeks. That will be a big relief. 

Need to go to Auto Zone this evening and order new fan blades for the truck. 

That's all a pretty far cry from where I was projecting being at this time, until the car engine blew and Wells Fargo screwed me again. However, also quite different from where I have been even this time last year. So, not complaining. And worlds away from a few years back, when I had no working vehicle and no electricity except the generator. Right now I have a home, job, food, motor bike and working truck. They all need some work but they all function. 

Feeling a bit more optimistic about my health. Things like that take a couple of days to assimilate. Nothing takes the symptoms away or the implications but attitude is everything. In spite of all, my health is better now than it had been for a while. 

Various thoughts

Mind is running.

Looks like I got the right job at the right time. Considering the health problems and the condition I would not have known about otherwise, also got health insurance at the right time. As a result of the job. Right now, it's a serious benefit to be working at home. 

I did inquire further with my supervisor about the requirements for a supervisor position today. She encouraged me further and said she thinks I would make a good supervisor. No real requirements or training within the company needed before being hired to the position. Just have to get my resume together and apply. With my history of supervisory positions, I may stand a good chance. Restaurants, military, charge nurse positions through the years. It would not surprise me if it would require more training in Colorado. Not that I would mind that with the right timing. Not so good if it happened during daughter's summer vacation.

Still, I am thinking more about finishing the wood shop and getting that idea off the ground. Also considering pursuing the idea of selling motor scooters. Now may be a good time. Lots of empty locations for business in my area. Something I could begin as a broker and ramp up fairly gradually. 

Waiting to see what my paycheck looks like this Friday. Got an email that I'll receive a back payment for a previous pay increase which I wasn't even aware had happened. Add that to work slowly increasing back to normal, so my case count is rising but not quite normal yet. Plus my federal tax refund is supposed to be deposited this Friday. Not enough yet for the engine but getting closer. Still working on bringing mortgage current first of all. 

I still need to till the garden and finish burning weeds. Thinking of ordering a few tons of composted wood chips next week, get things in shape to avoid weeds as much as possible this year. Plus till some of the wood chips in because the soil is still really hard. Tried tilling a bit on Monday but need to saturate the ground first. Can't set up the well pump yet because too much risk of freezing which could rupture the pump. So, have to start off with municipal water. 

Okay, need to get to bed. 

Bright side

Okay, I always have to look for the bright side of things. Even my recent diagnosis. 

Now, no matter what, I can't find myself clear to knowing this means I don't have to battle losing weight. 

However, this diagnosis does mean I have more than sufficient cause to get a prescription for medical marijuana. Not like I'm all that big on it. I still have a scant amount from what was originally a small amount given to me like 7 years ago. Very much a lightweight. However, it does relax smooth muscle and is proven effective for easing gastric pain and other related symptoms.

Of course, I would grow my own. May make liquid for the e-cigarette from it. May take some experimenting but that method would let me control the strength better and keep it down. Modern strains are much stronger than they used to be.

I ordered more tobacco seed, also. Did some research and smoking really is a treatment for ulcerative colitis, known for decades. The e-cigarette does not seem to help as much as regular cigarettes do and research is highly questionable whether other forms of nicotine delivery are as effective for the purpose.

No point in lying, even to myself any more. I have been in frequent and intense pain for a long time. Often afraid to eat because of the side effects. Steps I've taken have improved my overall health and reduced the symptoms somewhat. But any real improvement has been more hope and imagination than reality, I fear. 

This seriously sucks. Not one but two forms of autoimmune disorder. My body is destroying itself from the inside out. 

Still waiting for pathology report from the biopsies. Not even asking the doctor for anything to reduce the pain until that comes back. Rather hoping my present doc has no problem issuing a prescription for the marijuana without having to go to someone else. Hoping it helps with anxiety. 

I miss chat rooms

I miss chat rooms on the internet. 

There was a time when I could go into chat rooms and talk about many subjects. Web design, current news events, various cultures.. Guess they were pretty much gone before I started gardening.

Facebook is okay but very static in comparison. 

Chat rooms were ruined by spam and sex addicts, which took over all the chat rooms. Then various legislations which made chat room owners liable for things they could not control. 

Then came text replacements. Not so fond of those, either. No, I do not want people able to contact me when I am offline. 

Oh, well. Need to get to work.

Nervous

I have to admit I am nervous from this latest problem. 

Looking at what options are going to be. There are medications to keep ulcerative colitis under control, hopefully bring it into remission. Still, I am looking into and considering various alternatives which I can also do to help accelerate the process. 

Had some intestinal pain this evening. Probably because of the biopsies taken today and then eating dinner. (I kept it pretty light.) 

One problem is, if the medication doesn't work and the disease progresses. If that happens and it becomes bad enough, it can result in a need for surgery. Meaning a colectomy (removal of a section of the colon), which may or may not mean a colostomy, probably temporary. It gets closed about a year later with another surgery. That surgery is dangerous and has a long recovery period. Not to mention the blow to self image.

May sound gross but I'm definitely not the only person with this condition. For that reason, I'm not afraid to talk about it.

One common sense tactic is to add a strong laxative to my regimen for a while, to allow my intestines more chance to heal.

An alternative medicine therapy is to greatly increase lactobaccillus, at least for a while. 

Interesting thing is that this could mean (possible) that I do not have Celiac disease. It may be just ulcerative colitis (UC). However, that seems very unlikely with my reaction to gluten. Seems more likely the UC is another condition subsequent to Celiac and possibly to Candidiasis. To top it all off, stopping smoking is actually a factor which can make the condition worse. Maybe I started smoking again too late? 

Gotta get to bed.

Not good news

Results of my procedure today are not good news. The word from the doctor is Ulcerative Colitis.

I have seen many images from colonoscopies in my nursing career. Sadly, my own is one of the ugliest I have ever seen. Typically there is one or two images in a series which shows a problem. In my own series, there was damage evident in nearly every frame taken, with several areas of extensive scarring, narrowing the intestinal lumen. 

They took several biopsies and I have to wait for the pathology.

That could mean I'm not done with medical testing yet.

This is, once again, an autoimmune condition affecting the digestive system. It is also chronic, with no cure. Good news is that it does not have any life-threatening or shortening effect. It does cause pain and various discomforts. This may be the root cause of my recurring anemia. If not controlled, it can cause life-threatening problems which I won't go into. Those are not on the radar at the moment. 

Some good news is that some of the steps I've been taking for Candidiasis are also effective for this.

Some strange news is that smoking actually helps control the condition. That is, nicotine. 

So, going to wait and see what pathology comes back as. Then get with the doc and figure next course of action. 

It was an interesting situation getting the nurses to allow me to leave today. For some reason they didn't want me to ride the motorcycle across town after being medicated with Versed and Fentanyl. Eventually, I had to tell them that unless I was under arrest, I had to leave. At that time, I was quite alert. Got home without incident, around 5 PM.

The medication itself was an interesting experience. I know I was conscious through the procedure and recall vaguely being taken back to recovery. In a couple of minutes, they took out my IV and told me I could get dressed. Then, by the time I was dressed, I no longer recalled anything. I do recall some pain at the beginning of the procedure and saying "ouch" a couple of times. (Maybe they gave me more medication after that?) Aside from that, I have no memory. Not sure how much it relieved my pain or anxiety (I was more anxious about the medication than the procedure.) as much as it just made me forget any of it. Strange. But I had told them before that I have a low tolerance to medication. I also know those two medications have a very short duration of effectiveness.  

However, I am really tired now and will get to bed really early tonight.

Wiped out

The information I've given about my procedure today is pretty clear. I'm going for a colonoscopy this afternoon. Swore I would never get one of these but it is advised for all people my age. The advised schedule doesn't matter all that much to me. However, when added to existing conditions of Celiac disease and Candidiasis, it's really not a bad idea in my case.

I've had digestive problems in some form my whole life. Went to the doctor a lot growing up for intestinal issues. They didn't find much to explain it. (Then again, they were Army doctors and not much was known about Celiac disease back then.) In my late teens I was diagnosed with an ulcer. That healed but only after a couple of years of problems.

Just as well they did not figure out the Celiac thing when I was young. It would have placed many limits on things I have done in my life. In short, many of those things wouldn't have happened. I would not have been allowed in the military at that time and so would not have traveled to the other countries I've been to. Would not have tried foods and beers I have sampled in so many places. 

Much easier now than it was back then. 

Any way. Yesterday I was on clear liquids all day. Yesterday afternoon, I had to start taking laxatives which completely remove everything from the body. Four pills which are normally taken 1-2 at a time, then half of a gallon of stuff which completes the job. Half last night and the other half this morning. Almost done. Trying to get it finished as soon as possible. It's called GoLytely and doesn't taste very good. However, not nearly as bad as many drama queens have played it off as being through the years I have seen. Kind of like weak lemonade with salt added. 

The real challenge is yet to come. I have to make it all the way to the far side of Rio Rancho on the motor bike. Without making a mess on myself. I am leaving home very early and giving myself 90 minutes to get there. Even then, check-in is an hour before the procedure. 

You're not supposed to drive yourself to this appointment. They give you sedating medication before the procedure. Going to take some time for that to wear off. Worse part of that is that I have no idea what effect any medication will do to me before I take it. However, being that far away, no way I can take a taxi and a bus is completely out of the question. I'll just have to wait until I can function, go get something to eat and take my time getting home. With the cost of a taxi here, it would cost as much as $100 each direction and I don't have anybody that can drive me. (Even if I know anyone, they would be working.) Taking some extra items along for safety and mental security.

I'm a little worn out from not having any food left in my system. Mind is clear, though. I don't feel weak, just a little tired. Not even as hungry as I expected. That can be attributed to how many times in my life I have gone for multiple days without food. Both by choice and by circumstances. Some military and some not. Plus, the potion is concocted to keep electrolytes in your system and avoid drastic health effects.   

One good thing is that the weather is decent today. Warm enough to be comfortable for the ride. Wind is supposed to pick up tomorrow but not today. Supposed to be nice and sunny.

I had hoped to till the garden this morning but that's not going to happen. Oh, well. 

Yearly pass

This past Sunday, too the daughter to the zoo. Since some of the tax refund came in, I blew part of that on going ahead and buying a year pass to the BioPark for she and I. It costs more in a lump sum but will save money in the long term. She loves the zoo and the aquarium, while I like the botanical gardens. So, we spend a lot of time and money each year going to those places. Enough so that the year pass makes sense, especially when you toss in the River of Lights during the holidays. This also sets up a time frame that the pass can be renewed next year (maybe a yearly routine) when taxes come in.

So, we now have annual passes for the BioPark and for Cliff's Amusement Park this year. I won't be able to afford Disney World this year but want to be sure we have things to do. 

I also have plans to take her on a few road trips this summer. Hopefully to the Grand Canyon and possibly as far as the Norther California coast. Remains to be seen. Have to get the Camaro fixed or get some other transportation before that becomes a reality. Also get out and do some hiking in the mountains. Maybe Colorado. We both love nature, so these things make sense. 

Any way, we had fun at the zoo this weekend. In some of the habitats, they were feeding the large birds. Which meant they threw some dead rats in for the birds to feed on for some of them. I was afraid she would be really distressed by this sight but she accepts it as part of nature. In the python enclosure, they fed the snake a whole rabbit (already dead). We got to see the snake displace its' jaw and start to swallow the rabbit. We didn't hang around for the whole thing. Again, she was okay with it and was fascinated. Glad we never saw that when she was younger, though. 

One thing about it. She loves animals and I expect she may grow up to be a zoologist or veterinarian. She does have to be able to handle how these animals feed. Good thing is she seems well equipped for it. She can accept animal behavior as being their nature. She's a lot more critical of human behavior. Smart kid.

 

Hungry

This part of this process sucks. Not at all unexpected but it still sucks. I'm really hungry. No solid food left in my system now. 

Going to be a lot hungrier by tomorrow afternoon, when the procedure is over. Planning on eating as soon as I'm released, recovered from the medication and able to get someplace I can eat. 

Eventually got past the risk of wheat contamination in bouillon by getting a couple of chicken breasts and making my own broth the old fashioned way. Plenty of it left to make soup tomorrow night. 

Gotta get to bed and hope I can sleep.

Productive afternoon

Had a rather productive afternoon. Well, day once the bike warmed enough to start.

Got some parts for the truck. Have to go back sometime for some other parts. For now, the air pump is working again. That helps the vacuum system work more efficiently. Which may help with the oil pressure. (Hopefully.) Definitely should help a bit with the transmission shifting better and increase gas mileage. Real hope is that it's less likely to overheat. 

Got new brakes for the front end. One side had worn out. Replaced those on that side. The other side is okay. 

The other part I need is an harmonic balancer. New, they cost about $100. If I can get one from the used parts places, it costs about $20. Pain in the tail to pull one, though. 

Got a call from the place I'm going for my procedure tomorrow. I've said before how crooked the medical places here are. Today, they told me my procedure would require a co-payment of over $1200. I informed them this was a preventive care procedure, it should cost nothing out of my pocket and I had already spoken with my insurance company before scheduling anything. "Oh. We'll call you right back." An hour later, still no call. I called them. "Yes, you were right. You won't owe any co-payment." I have no question they intended to bill both me and the insurance company. I also believe they get paid less for preventive diagnostic procedures than for procedures they bill under "regular services". 

Any way, I also burned the back yard. Got a tank of propane, pulled out the hose. I had piled stuff up this weekend to burn. Burned one section at a time. It was all so dry that it took under 30 minutes to complete all the areas I planned on burning. Now I can start tilling tomorrow morning. Maybe even in a few minutes, before dark. If I have gas for the tiller. Other than that, I started taking the prep for my procedure. I may not be going anyplace too far. 

Success and failure

Had success in finding some parts for the truck which I've been lacking for a long time. The part is no longer made. Finally had the time, the money and located the part all at the same time. 

On the other hand, I am about to give up on quitting smoking. I was blaming the Chantix for my temper but I don't think Chantix was the problem. I think smoking seriously calms my nerves and I am actually nicer when I smoke. I am not feeling any better physically from quitting, aside from the money. 

Maybe a large part is that I have given up too many things now. Wheat, most milk products, beer, yeast, most processed sugar. 

Perhaps I can stick with the electronic cigarette most of the time. But it appears I cannot quit smoking entirely. At least not right now. 

No food

Today and tomorrow I am not allowed to eat. Clear liquids from now until late tomorrow afternoon. I think it's karma for all the patients I've had to enforce this on.

Jello. No red, no purple, no orange. That pretty much leaves yellow and green. I may see about some boullion but lots of that has wheat products in it. Lots of apple juice and Gatorade stocked up.

Before taking the required medication, making trips to used truck parts place/s, couple of other stores for various supplies and getting some things done around the house, yard and truck.

I did get a late start this morning but this time it was because I wanted to and because I could. 

However, right now I'm waiting for the bike engine to warm up from the sun. I removed the insulation I had packed around the engine, which at this point is retaining more cold than heat. 

Limbo

The tomato seeds I started last week are starting to come up. I did place the seed racks in the coldest (though brightest) room in the house. Got impatient since nothing was happening and placed a heating pad under the tray on low heat. Since then is when they started sprouting. Once the tomato seeds sprout, I'll move the heating pad under the pepper tray. 

Several strawberry plants are starting to grow now from the roots I planted this past weekend. Think I'll just have to keep strawberries in containers. Still too much salt in the soil for them. They're apparently very sensitive to it. 

All indications seem to point to the sodium in the soil decreasing or being neutralized. But not quite enough yet for some plants. 

I have to admit I miss working at night, especially 12 hour shifts. That left daylight hours to get things done. 

I am still going to work on the solarium, alternative energy sources for the house and insulating the place. Eventually have heat around the clock and light any time I want without going broke to have those things. 

I stopped working on the solarium for a while between weather, winter lack of sunlight and my work schedule. Some of the basic stuff is a bit moot for the time being. Though I do need to get out and set the last couple of posts. But in a few weeks I have to build and install some vents for the top section to dissipate heat. Then open up the sides for summer. The convection is what should help keep the house cooler in summer. 

Obviously, I am still in a bit of mental limbo for the moment. Part that sun is coming up earlier but I have only a short while after work with any light remaining. Still a bit cool in the mornings and I'm not such a fan of getting dirty before work. However, most is that I feel strange. All these chemical changes to my body. If I don't start feeling normal soon, I am going to start smoking again. Or at least using nicotine in the electronic cigarette. Still giving it another few days, at least.  

I do still keep debating what to do about transportation. This truck isn't going to last much longer without truly major repairs. Trying to get money together for the engine rebuild on the Camaro. However, also keeping an eye on CL for another cheap but running vehicle. Chances increase further into tax season. I have considered buying from a dealer but don't want the burden of a payment. Things have been too unstable for me for too long. Used vehicles from a dealer are not more reliable than something you buy from a person. 

For now, since I have Monday off, hoping the U Pull and Pay is open that day. Go early and see if I can get some parts for the truck before having to start getting ready for my medical test. Can't go there on the weekend because they have an age limit and daughter is too young. Rest of the week they open too late and it conflicts with work. 

Valentine's Day

So, tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Or as I like to call it, VD day.

This is definitely the holiday I despise the most. It is the most plastic, the most pretentious, the most appealing to people prone to brain washing, most attractive to liars and manipulators. 

If it were not for my daughter, I would have absolutely nothing to do with this holiday. As it is, I went to get her something this evening and was taken aback by the insanity of the crowd. Guess you can't fight hormones. 

Only picked up some candy. May try and get something more tomorrow night or Sat morning. 

I wouldn't have any problem with the holiday if adults treated it the way children do. Just hand out cheap candy and small cards to everyone you like, work with, etc. Leave the jealousy and false expectations out of it. 

My backward body chemistry. I did not take Chantix today. My anger has been in much better control and my nicotine cravings have reduced to a small level compared to just yesterday. Mind is more clear and did not have a nagging headache like I've been having. Still a slight urge to smoke but getting easier. 

Update

Well, so far the wireless fence appears to be working. Plus the male has remained in the yard, even though he does not have a collar on for the fence. Yet. 

I have plenty of wire, so I will be doubling over the wire to make the field much larger that the dogs have to cross, to 3 or 4 wires. 

I still keep having nicotine urges. It sucks. However, I have not given in to them. 

Here's a good thing. My body is absorbing more fluid again. Various conditions were causing body tissues to not absorb fluid very well for some time. Now it shows in my skin becoming less dry and blood vessels standing out like they haven't in quite a while. Even a few shallow wrinkles are fading away because they were caused by dry skin. The down side to all of that is that the extra fluid makes my hands and arms feel bloated. I just have to adjust to having that much fluid in my extremities again. I am gaining weight and some of that is fluid. However, it is a positive because it is fluid which was previously being displaced and is now remaining where it should. 

Nerves are also healing all over. I've never told anyone but I have always had the very strong feeling that there was something wrong with my nervous system. Turns out I was quite right but it was being caused by my diet. Guess it's a good trade off. Nerves are supposed to atrophy as you get older. Meanwhile, mine are healing. May in some ways mean they remain static but at least that means they're not going downhill. And I no longer have the feeling that something is wrong which I don't know about. 

Getting to bed early. Picking up and extra 2 hours again tomorrow. 

Wireless dog fence

Received the wireless dog fence this evening. Did a rush job to set it up. It was already mostly dark outside. Tested it and it seems to be working. Now to see how well it keeps the dogs in the yard.

Of course, I wrote the other day how the male is best about staying in the yard. So now he started getting out. His mother taught him how to escape. So, I had to order a third collar. (There's no limit to how many collars the fence will support. The fence just send out a signal.) Still, I think he's more follower than anything else, so the collars are on both females. If I have to, I will turn the thin barrier into a wide field to contain them. 

Work kind of sucked today. Continuous network problems, getting cut off in the middle of calls. Negated much of the extra time I put in. I still got about 90 cases but it should have been much more. I had to restart the main work program 6 times today. 

Good news. My hourly pay and my pay per case has gone up. Not a whole lot but the more cases I work, the more it will show. A little. At base, it amounts to about $20 more per week. That's $80 a month. I'll just consider that in conjunction with the money I am saving by quitting smoking and the numbers start actually meaning something. 

Not so much..

Well, not so much done this morning, after all. Back to the challenge of waking up earlier. Couldn't fall asleep last night, so had a hard time waking up this morning. 

I think it may be easier to go to sleep somewhat earlier as spring and summer progress, as I will be doing more that wears me out physically. Be easier to wake up earlier because the sun will be up and temperature warmer. 

I did clean the furnace filter this morning. Think I'll get the shelves done this evening. Maybe legs for daughter's bed, also. Those things shouldn't take long. All are pretty simple. 

Still having a bit of a struggle with an urge to smoke. I do mean a physical urge, not just habit. Menthol cough drops and the non-nicotine electronic cigarette help to a point. Different sources say different things about how long it takes for all the nicotine to leave your system. In my case, after 40 years of smoking, I am sure it will take quite a while. 

Okay, I need to take a shower before work.

Rough day

Today was a rough day. IT issues kept happening, killing calls in the middle of the call. Shutting down phone connection between calls for long periods.. 

Partly for stress and partly unknown reasons, today has been one of the hardest days for me since quitting smoking. Today was day number 8. Maybe it's rougher because I started reducing the Chantix dose on Friday. Takes a couple of days for blood levels to drop and then you feel it. However, I know that is dropping at the same time that nicotine is dropping. 

Good news on this one. Shipping estimate for the wireless dog fence says it should be here on Wed. That's good because I am really tired of battling these dogs.

Getting some more things slowly straightened out in the house. Had planned on making the office the last part of the house to work on. However, started getting some of the office straight and that gave me more space to move things from other areas, making things look a bit nicer. Tomorrow I'm going to get one more shelf in place in the laundry room/pantry. If I wake up early enough, can get that done before work.

Sunrise

Okay, during winter I've been sleeping later. Now the sun is coming up around 7 AM and the temperature isn't severely cold. Going to start setting the alarm earlier and get up before sunrise.

I am looking forward to the longer days of spring and summer for other reasons, also. I want to go for some long rides on the bike after work. (I'm still hoping to get my work hours shifted back to earlier times.) 

This week, I'm going to take some steps toward getting the house much more organized. That tends to be the biggest problem I have. But run into lots of road blocks. Mostly money. Though time and energy were lacking for a while there. 

Checked Amazon. Dog fence is supposed to be here by this Friday. That will be a much safer alternative to the electric fence. More reliable also, since the wires get buried and I don't have to worry about grass or rain grounding it and making it moot. The electric fence scared daughter a little bit last year, though it didn't take her long to learn to unplug it. Nobody ever got shocked except the dog's noses. 

This pay period, I am counting on getting at least part of the tax refunds soon, like this week. So I am borrowing slightly from the refund amount to achieve some small things a couple of weeks faster. Though I may put the rest into savings this year simply to keep track of it better. If I borrow from it, I will immediately replace it the following check plus add more to it. Until I have enough for the Camaro repairs. 

May is when my finances will make a serious improvement this year. Three paychecks that month. Just enough difference to be able to split the difference between April and May and extend that effect, since the first check in May is the 2nd. I can make the mortgage payment after work on the 1st. 
 

Circus weekend

Took daughter to the Shrine Circus yesterday. It was good! She said she thought it was the best circus she had seen so far.

Last weekend, when we were talking about it, I was slightly worried about taking the truck. I initially said I would take her. With anxiety about the truck, I then said maybe it would be better if her mother took her. She said okay but her eyes teared up. Obviously, she wanted to go with me. So I changed it back and said we would have to get there a bit early. 

Happily, we had not problem with the truck this weekend. 

One thing sucks. I forgot to bring the camera. However, experience tells me anything worth taking pictures of at the circus simply won't come out! She is growing up and didn't care to ride the elephants or venture into the crowd on the circus floor. 

She didn't feel like doing much today. Played a lot of games on the computer. She has some sinus problems which resulted in a cough. However, her peak flow measured fine. Seems to be just allergies. 

Weather is improving, days are getting longer. I've started getting some things done outside. That tends to give me more energy, so I get more done inside, as well. Tomato seeds are started. So are pepper seeds and strawberry roots.

I got outside for a little while today and cut or pulled lots of dead plant material. I'm going to pile most of that up and burn it. 

Got a melamine covered panel on the way home from dropping daughter off. This is to help get the drain area in the kitchen cleaner and more organized. Put the panel in place, propped so it's at a slight angle for drainage, caulked the edges with white silicone caulking, pressing it into the edges of the wood pores really well with my fingers. I do think I'll add a coating of water proofing. Then cover with non-slip rubber matting. Going to get a new dish drain soon. This is semi-temporary. Sometime in the distant future I plan on replacing all the counter tops with decorative concrete. Not anytime soon. 

I have a live chicken in the kitchen. Heard a noise in the back yard, walked outside. At first, nothing seemed amiss. Then suddenly I heard frantic clucking from the solarium and a flurry of white feathers being chased by one of the dogs exploded in front of me. Daughter got the dogs distracted while I cornered the chicken. Approached it slowly enough that it calmed down slightly. It was slightly injured but nothing major. More frightened than anything. It found a corner to hide in and has stayed there. Can't put it outside because the dogs have torn too many holes through the fence. 

On that issue, I did divert some money to buy a wireless dog fence. Found one for under $60 on Amazon which will more than cover their area and includes two collars. The male isn't bad about getting out but if he starts acting up, I can get a third collar later. Not all that happy having to spend the money but the females are too much of a problem. It will also save money in the long term from less need for further fencing repairs as spring and planting gets near. Good thing about this set is that the collars use 9 volt batteries, which I can get 2/$1 at Dollar Tree. Some collars use special batteries which are not very cheap. It can save more money on building supplies on the solarium by reducing the need to reinforce the sides of the growing area. The set comes with enough wiring to cover roughly 900 linear ft, so it's more than enough for this area.